calcitonin gene-related peptide migraine

The advent of antibodies against calcitonin gene-related peptides (CGRP) marks one of the landmark progress in the battle against migraine headaches. The initial data with respect to human clinical trials has been excellent and encouraging in a vast majority of the patients. Complete resolution of both acute and chronic migraine headache has been seen with use of calcitonin gene-related peptides.

The CGRP levels and activity is raised markedly during migraine attacks. This medication which has the antibodies to this very spiking peptide, blocks the activity of CGRP molecule. This will either block the receptor of the CGRP or bind with the molecule, itself. The calcitonin gene-related peptides migraine connection is thought to be responsible for the complex aura and pathophysiology associated with it. People with migraine headaches are sensitive to the CGRP effects and experiments have shown that when injected into the blood stream of these patients, they tend to develop the classical migraine headaches.

Super Responders to CGRP Antibodies

This is considered to be the most targeted therapy for migraines, till date. Reports of super responders in the recent trials are available who with one injection of the drug have had complete relief for well over 6 months with no episode of migraine in the aforementioned period.

The calcitonin gene-related peptides migraine use has been tested and monitored for adverse effects and safety profile. The current outcome has very safe tolerability reports with minimal side effects reported. The main indications for using the CGRP antibodies include

acute/ episodic headache

chronic migraine

cluster headache

Calcitonin gene-related peptides (CGRP) antibodies provide a hope for patients suffering with chronic / acute migraine and cluster headaches who don’t respond adequately to the conventional therapies that include the triptans, ergotamine derivatives and NSAIDs among others. These drugs are expected to be in market and in full use by the end of next year, hopefully.